A Blue Heron Rookery!

The heronry is located within the city limits of Vernon BC, more than 100 majestic blue herons nest in the cottonwood trees which are nestled between Wal-Mart, residential complexes and industrial businesses. It is one of the largest urban heronries in Western Canada and one of the very few located within a city.

Three pairs of great blue heron established the breeding colony in 1986 and it has gradually increased over the past 26 years to more than 50 nests.

Once the birds are paired, a new nest is built or an old one is refurbished. Herons are very adept at finding twigs. Usually the male brings them one at a time to the female who positions them. Although a new nest platform can be built in a few days, sometimes it may take several weeks. Herons form monogamous pair bonds within the breeding season, but often switch mates each year.